12AT7 tube

The problem with the Telefunkens, and maybe why your dealer is trying to steer you away from them is that there where 2 Telefunken plants. One in what became East Germany, the other in West Germany. The East German plant was shut off from the rest of the world after WW2, and, while it had all the correct manufacturing equipment, it did not have access to top quality raw materials, hence smaller pins and other failings compared to its West German brother. The East German plant, however, produced a plethora of tubes which look like the "real thing" but are not. These massive tube inventories were snatched up at bargain prices by tube vendors and pawned off on the rest of the world, most often at the inflated prices that the West German tubes where demanding on the market. Hence, it's really hard to be sure what you are paying for, especially when purchasing over the internet. The real telefunkens usually have poor print quality, easily rubbed off. FWIW, I usually prefer the rebranded Telefunkens used during the 60's (West German) by companies like Dynaco, Fisher, MacIntosh, and Eico. Since they are also used, they demand a lower price, but the sound is true Telefunken. Happy Listening,

The Valvo 6201 blue label would be one to go after. I just installed a pair last night in a preamp & took out a pair of bugle boys. All I can say is WOW. The Valvo blues have the midrange sweetness of amperex tubes, but in a tighter-cleaner form....more detail too. The bass is tigher & punchier with the blues also. I've heard a lot of good things about the blues over the years...it appears it's true. I'm happy to say "I have the blues".

Siemens-Halske (not just "Siemens") E81CC is a premium tube. The Slyvania 12AT7WA is also very good.

Try Andy at 'Vintage tubes' if you are dead set on getting some Telefunkens... he'll get you the real deals. Guarnateed.

the Valvo mentioned above interests me as I have both RCA 12AT7 & 12AX, as well as the Amperex same same. I run RCA AT and Bugle Boy AX. in my preamp. that combo is smooth and punchy with fine extension and excellent detail.

I've heard as well the Sulvania are good too.

Fish,

Is your Blue a 3 Mica and where did you buy them?

Try the Sylvania gold brand 6201 tubes...smooth, with great bandwidth. Best inner detail that I have heard in a 6201. The valvo is also one of the best...amsks a bit of detail, but among the top three IMHO.